signal

¹sig·nal

noun \ˈsig-n^əl\

Definition of SIGNAL

1

: sign, indication

2

a : an act, event, or watchword that has been agreed on as the occasion of concerted action b : something that incites to action

3

: something (as a sound, gesture, or object) that conveys notice or warning

4

a : an object used to transmit or convey information beyond the range of human voice b : the sound or image conveyed in telegraphy, telephony, radio, radar, or television c : a detectable physical quantity or impulse (as a voltage, current, or magnetic field strength) by which messages or information can be transmitted

Examples of SIGNAL

1. He likes her but he is sending the wrong signals with his constant teasing.
2. The teacher gave us the signal to finish what we were working on and hand in our tests.
3. Faulty wiring in the train station caused a signal to malfunction.

Origin of SIGNAL

Middle English, from Medieval Latin signale, from Late Latin, neuter of signalis of a sign, from Latin signum

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to SIGNAL

Synonyms: flag, tocsin

Related Words: red light; knell

see all synonyms and antonyms

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